FMR Resources has started drilling at Target K within the Southern Porphyry system of its Llahuin Project JV in Chile, aiming to test a key 500-metre corridor between previous targets. This move follows detailed integration of geological and geophysical data refining the exploration model.
- Drilling underway at Target K, third hole in Phase I program
- Target K positioned between Targets A and C based on integrated data
- Downhole geophysical data from Target C being processed for model integration
- Southern Porphyry hosts copper-gold-molybdenum mineralisation typical of porphyry systems
- Further drilling and data integration planned with updates forthcoming
Exploration Advances at Southern Porphyry
FMR Resources Limited (ASX, FMR) has commenced diamond drilling at Target K, a newly defined site within the Southern Porphyry system of the Llahuin Project Joint Venture in Chile. This latest drillhole, designated 26LHDD072, marks the third hole in the company’s Phase I drilling program, signalling a methodical approach to testing the extensive copper-gold-molybdenum porphyry system.
Target K is strategically located approximately 250 metres south-west of Target A and 400 metres east-south-east of Target C. The decision to drill here follows a comprehensive integration of geological observations, petrographic studies, and structural vein orientation data from previous drillholes. These combined vectors have refined the understanding of the Southern Porphyry system’s architecture, pointing to a compelling corridor between Targets A and C that warrants detailed testing.
Geophysical Insights Drive Targeting
Downhole geophysical probing at Target C has recently been completed, with data processing underway. This information will be integrated with existing magnetotelluric, induced polarisation, and magnetic models to enhance the subsurface interpretation. The new drillhole at Target K is designed to intersect this corridor at an azimuth of 305° and a dip of –68°, targeting a depth of up to 1,650 metres. The aim is to test geophysical anomalies, including a significant magnetotelluric high amplitude feature at depth, which may correspond to the core of the porphyry system.
Managing Director Oliver Kiddie emphasised the importance of this integrated approach, stating that the combined results from Targets A and C have crystallised Target K as a priority for drilling. The structural and alteration patterns suggest a southward vector towards Target K, potentially indicating a fluid source and mineralisation focus between the earlier drill sites.
Geological Setting and Exploration Context
The Southern Porphyry target lies within a six-kilometre mineralised corridor at Llahuin, known for hosting multiple copper-gold-molybdenum porphyry centres. Surface mapping and historic drilling have revealed argillic alteration, silicification, and epithermal quartz veining, alongside secondary copper mineralisation typical of the upper levels of porphyry systems. These features suggest a telescoped system where epithermal-style alteration overlies a deeper porphyry core, a classic setting for significant copper-gold deposits.
FMR’s ongoing work includes detailed geophysical surveys and petrological analyses, supported by reputable contractors and academic institutions. The company is committed to rigorous data quality control and integration to ensure robust targeting and resource estimation.
Next Steps and Market Implications
Drilling at Target K is underway with completion expected in the near term. Concurrently, FMR is finalising the integration of downhole geophysical data from Targets A and C, which will inform further exploration decisions. The company has pledged to provide timely updates on drilling progress and results, which will be closely watched by investors given the potential scale of the Southern Porphyry system.
This phase of exploration represents a critical step in validating the resource potential of the Llahuin Project, which aligns with FMR’s strategic focus on copper and critical minerals essential for the global energy transition.
Bottom Line?
As drilling progresses at Target K, FMR Resources edges closer to unlocking the full potential of its Southern Porphyry system.
Questions in the middle?
- What initial assay results will reveal about mineralisation at Target K?
- How will integrated geophysical data reshape the exploration model for Southern Porphyry?
- What are the implications for resource size and project valuation if Target K confirms a significant porphyry core?